CROATIA

Welcome to Croatia! This stunning gem on the Adriatic Sea offers a captivating blend of ancient history, breathtaking natural beauty, and a vibrant coastal culture. From medieval cities to pristine islands, prepare for an unforgettable journey through a land shaped by empires and rich traditions.

Region: Central and Southeast Europe, on the Adriatic Sea

Capital: Zagreb

Official Language: Croatian

Level of Travel Safety: Generally very safe. While violent crime is rare, be mindful of petty crime like pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas.

A map of Europe with Croatia highlighted in green.

Why Visit Croatia?

Dazzling Coastline: Croatia’s stunning beaches along the Adriatic Sea, including Zlatni Rat on Brač, are perfect for relaxation or water activities.

Rich History & UNESCO Sites: From Diocletian’s Palace in Split to the Old Town of Dubrovnik, Croatia is a haven for history lovers.

The Islands: Discover picturesque islands like Hvar, Korčula, and Mljet, famous for their beautiful landscapes and serene atmosphere.

An aerial view of the walled city of Dubrovnik at dusk, with lights twinkling along the coastline.

Plitvice Lakes National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its crystal-clear lakes, waterfalls, and lush greenery.

Vibrant Local Culture: Experience Croatian traditions through local festivals, wine tours in Istria, and amazing food like fresh seafood and truffle dishes.

Affordable Luxury: Croatia offers many luxury options (hotels, yachts) at a lower price compared to Western Europe.

A beautiful coastal town with red-tiled roofs nestled along a vibrant blue sea.

Essential Trip Information

Croatia is part of the Schengen Area. Travelers from most countries can stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without requiring a visa.

Check eligibility and apply for a visa or a visa waiver via the official Croatian visa website.

Passport Requirements: Must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay in Croatia.

Immigration may request proof of onward travel, accommodation bookings, and sufficient funds for your stay.

Visa fee (if required) is typically €60, though fees may vary by nationality.

ESTA (for U.S. citizens) is not applicable for Croatia, so U.S. travelers must apply for a tourist visa if required.

Croatia uses the Croatian Kuna (HRK), but most places in tourist areas accept euros (€) as well.

Exchange rate: 1 USD ≈ 7 HRK.

Currency denominations: Banknotes: 10–500 HRK. Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 lipa.

Best Ways to Handle Currency:

  • Before your trip: Exchange a small amount of HRK or euros at home for convenience.

  • During your trip: Use ATMs at major banks (Zagrebačka Banka, Erste Bank). Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted, but carry cash for smaller vendors or markets.

  • What to avoid: Avoid currency exchange kiosks in tourist spots (they offer poor rates) and always opt for paying in the local currency (HRK) if possible.

The official language is Croatian, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

Helpful phrases:

  • “Excuse me” – Ispričavam se
  • “Thank you” – Hvala
  • “Where is…?” – Gdje je…?

Croatia is generally considered safe for tourists. However, be cautious in crowded tourist spots (e.g., Split, Dubrovnik) where pickpockets may operate.

Emergency number: 112 (for police, ambulance, fire)

Tap water is safe to drink.

No special vaccinations are required for travel to Croatia.

Travel insurance is recommended for all travelers.

Pharmacies (Ljekarna) are widely available in cities.

Public hospitals in Croatia are of good quality but may require upfront payment.

Public transport: Buses and trams are efficient, especially in larger cities like Zagreb and Split.

Walking/Biking: Many attractions are within walking distance in cities. Croatia’s coast is also very bike-friendly.

Taxis/Ride-sharing: Uber operates in major cities. Taxi fares can be higher in popular tourist spots.

Croatia is a mix of affordable and mid-range pricing, with some tourist-heavy areas like Dubrovnik being more expensive.

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Hostels and budget hotels (HRK 400–800/night; $55–110)
  • Mid-range: 3-star hotels (HRK 900–1,800/night; $120–240)
  • Luxury: 4-5 star hotels (HRK 2,000+/night; $270+)

Food:

  • Quick eats: Bakeries, street food (HRK 30–60; $4–8)
  • Casual dining: Restaurants, pizzerias (HRK 70–150; $10–20)
  • Fine dining: Upscale restaurants (HRK 300+/meal; $40+)

Drinks:

  • Beer: HRK 20–40 ($3–5) in bars; HRK 10–15 ($1.5–2) in supermarkets
  • Cocktails: HRK 40–80 ($5–10)

Transportation:

  • Bus: HRK 10–20/ride ($1.5–3)
  • Taxis/Uber: HRK 50–150 for short trips ($7–20)
  • Bike rentals: HRK 50–100/hour ($7–15)

Money-Saving Tips:

  • Explore free historical sites such as Zagreb’s Old Town, Diocletian’s Palace in Split, and Plitvice Lakes National Park (entry costs apply).
  • Take the local ferries to nearby islands, which can be more affordable than private boat tours.
  • Eat like a local in family-owned konobas (restaurants) for more affordable, authentic meals.

Explore Croatia

Often called the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” this historic walled city on the southern Dalmatian coast is famous for its stunning architecture and breathtaking sea views. Its Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Located in central Croatia, this UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its 16 terraced lakes, interconnected by a series of waterfalls, extending into a limestone canyon.

Situated on Croatia’s central Dalmatian coast, Split is known for its Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO site. It’s a vibrant city offering a mix of ancient history and modern life.

One of the most popular islands off the Dalmatian coast, Hvar is celebrated for its lavender fields, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful beaches. It’s easily accessible by ferry from Split.

The capital city of Croatia, located in the northwest, offers a charming blend of Austro-Hungarian architecture, bustling markets, and a lively arts and culture scene.

A picturesque fishing port on the west coast of the Istrian peninsula, Rovinj is known for its cobbled streets, colorful houses, and beautiful harbor. It’s located in northwestern Croatia.

An island in the southern Adriatic, Korčula is famous for its dense forests, charming medieval town (resembling a mini-Dubrovnik), and local white wines. It’s located off the Dalmatian coast.

Located in central Dalmatia, this national park is famous for its magnificent waterfalls, including the expansive Skradinski Buk, and its diverse ecosystems.

An ancient city on the Dalmatian coast, Zadar is known for its Roman and Venetian ruins, as well as its unique sea organ and Greeting to the Sun art installations.

A heart-shaped peninsula in northwestern Croatia, famous for its truffles, olive oil, wine, and charming hilltop towns like Motovun and Grožnjan, reminiscent of Tuscany.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices
  • Fewer Crowds
  • Authentic Local Vibe
  • Winter Sports (in mountainous regions)
  • Cozy Atmosphere

Main Drawbacks:

  • Cold Temperatures
  • Shorter Days
  • Limited Outdoor Activities (non-ski)
  • Some Closures

Key Regions:

  • Zagreb: Enjoy festive markets and a lively cultural scene without the summer bustle.
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park: Experience the magical frozen waterfalls, often with fewer visitors.
  • Istria (Inland): Explore charming hilltop towns and enjoy truffle season in a quieter setting.
  • Slavonia: Discover the eastern plains, known for its traditional food and wine, in a relaxed pace.

Key Advantages:

  • Ideal Weather
  • Manageable Crowds
  • Reasonable Prices
  • Festivals & Events
  • Blooming Landscapes (Spring) & Autumn Colors (Autumn)

Main Drawbacks:

  • Unpredictable Weather (especially early Spring/late Autumn)
  • Some attractions might have reduced hours early in the season
  • Still popular for certain events, leading to localized crowd spikes

Key Regions:

  • Dalmatian Coast (Split, Dubrovnik, Hvar): Pleasant temperatures for exploring ancient cities and islands.
  • Istrian Peninsula (Coastal): Perfect for cycling, wine tasting, and enjoying the coast without peak crowds.
  • Kvarner Gulf (Rijeka, Opatija): Experience the elegant coastal resorts with mild weather.
  • National Parks (Krka, Paklenica): Ideal for hiking and enjoying nature before the summer heat.
  • Mid-Summer (June-August)
  • Christmas and New Year Holiday Period
  • Ultra Europe Festival in Split (July)

Planning Your Trip

Tipping: 10–15% is standard at restaurants, and small tips are appreciated for hotel staff.

Dress Code: Casual for sightseeing and dining; business casual is common for upscale restaurants and hotels.

Punctuality: Generally punctual, especially for business meetings. For casual gatherings, a small delay is acceptable.

Politics: Avoid discussing politics or sensitive historical topics (e.g., the war of the 1990s) unless you’re familiar with the context.

Public Behavior: Croatia is quite laid-back, but public displays of affection may be frowned upon in more conservative regions.

Croatia can be affordable, especially if you’re traveling outside the peak summer season.

Accommodation:

  • Hostels (US$20–40), Hotels (US$60–150), Luxury (US$200+).

Food:

  • Street food (US$5–10), Casual meal (US$15–25), Fine dining (US$50+).

Transport:

  • Trains/buses (US$5–20), Car rental (US$30/day), Ferries (US$10–30).

Activities:

  • National park entry (US$10–20), Day tours (US$50–100).

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$60–90 (hostels, street food, public transport).

  • Mid-range: US$150–250 (mid-range hotels, sit-down meals, attractions).

  • Luxury: US$350+ (luxury stays, fine dining, private tours).

Free Wi-Fi: Available in most hotels, cafes, and public spaces in cities.

SIM Cards: Available from local providers like T-Mobile and A1. Prepaid plans start at US$15–30 for 10GB.

eSIMs: Supported by major providers (Airalo, T-Mobile) for seamless connectivity.

Recommended for Medical coverage, trip cancellations, and activities like hiking or kayaking.

Croatia Healthcare: Healthcare is high-quality but can be expensive for non-EU visitors. Travel insurance ensures you’re covered for emergencies.

Adventure Activities: Some policies may not cover extreme sports (e.g., paragliding or rock climbing), so check your plan.

Croatia offers a range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury resorts along the Adriatic coast.

Hotels:

  • Luxury: Hotel Dubrovnik Palace (Dubrovnik), Esplanade Hotel (Zagreb).
  • Mid-range: Hotel Luxe (Split), Hotel Park (Zadar).
  • Budget: Hostel 101 (Zagreb), Hostel Bella (Dubrovnik).

Airbnb/VRBO:

  • Great for finding unique stays, especially in popular cities like Dubrovnik and Split. Many apartments have beautiful sea views.
  • Prices: US$50–200/night, depending on the location and size.

Boutique Stays:

  • The Gallo (Zagreb) or Villa Dubrovnik (Dubrovnik) offer personalized, stylish experiences.

Tip: Look for accommodation close to public transport or the waterfront for easy access to attractions and scenic views.

Croatia has a well-connected transport system, making it easy to get around by land, sea, and air.

Trains:

  • Croatian Railways offers train routes connecting major cities like Zagreb, Split, and Rijeka.
  • Comfortable, but slower than buses or driving.
  • Fares: Typically US$20–30 for longer routes.

Buses:

  • Buses are the most common and affordable mode of transport, connecting cities and coastal towns.
  • Tickets range from US$10–20 depending on the distance.

Ferries:

  • Ferries are essential for traveling between islands (e.g., Split to Hvar or Dubrovnik to Korčula).
  • Prices: US$10–30 depending on the route.

Car Rental:

  • Recommended for exploring coastal regions and inland areas at your own pace.
  • Rental prices start at US$30/day.
  • Traffic can be heavy in summer, particularly on the Adriatic coast.

Taxis/Rideshares:

  • Taxis are available, but rideshares like Uber are more popular in cities like Zagreb and Split.

Biking:

  • Croatia is a great destination for cycling, with scenic routes, particularly along the coast.
  • Bike rentals are available for around US$20–30/day.

Handy Tips

Croatia uses the Croatian Kuna (HRK). Bills come in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 kuna; coins include 1, 2, 5, and 10 kuna, as well as 1, 2, 5, and 25 lipa (subunits of kuna).

Exchanging Currency: Avoid airport exchange kiosks as they tend to have high fees. Use ATMs or banks for better rates.

Using Cards: Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry small bills for tips, street vendors, or metro fare.

Tipping Etiquette:

  • Restaurants/Bars: Tipping 10-15% of the bill is customary (check if gratuity is already included).
  • Taxis/Rideshares: 10% or round up the fare.
  • Hotel Staff: 10-20 HRK per bag for porters; 20-50 HRK per day for housekeeping.
  • Tour Guides: 50-100 HRK per person for group tours.

Croatian is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. Some helpful phrases:

  • “Gdje je najbliža postaja metroa?” (Where’s the nearest metro station?)

  • “Koliko košta…?” (How much is…?)

  • “Mogu li dobiti račun?” (Can I get a receipt?) Pro Tip: Locals appreciate politeness, so greet with “dobar dan” (good day) and “hvala” (thank you).

Croatia is generally safe for tourists. However, be cautious in crowded tourist spots (e.g., Dubrovnik Old Town) and avoid isolated areas at night.

  • Emergency Contacts:

    • 112: All emergencies (police, medical, fire).

    • 194: Road assistance.

    • Your Embassy: Keep the contact details of your embassy handy, as they are located in Zagreb.

Croatia uses 230V/50Hz with Type C/F plugs (two round pins). International visitors will need an adapter; converters are rarely needed for modern electronics.

Tap water is safe to drink (even in cities like Dubrovnik). Restaurants serve free tap water—ask for “obična voda” (regular water) to avoid bottled upsells.

Major closures on:

  • 1 Jan: New Year’s Day

  • 6 Jan: Epiphany

  • Easter Monday (varies)

  • 1 May: Labor Day

  • 30 May: Statehood Day

  • 22 Jun: Anti-Fascist Struggle Day

  • 5 Aug: Victory & Homeland Thanksgiving Day

  • 15 Aug: Assumption Day

  • 1 Nov: All Saints’ Day

  • 25–26 Dec: Christmas
    Note: Tourist sites remain open, but shops/banks may close.

Stores: Typically 8:00–20:00 (shorter hours on Sundays).

Supermarkets: Often open until 22:00 in cities.

Markets: Morning-only (e.g., Dubrovnik’s Gundulićeva Poljana, Zagreb’s Dolac Market).

Pasticada: Slow-cooked beef stew in red wine and herbs, traditionally served with gnocchi.

Ćevapi: Grilled minced meat sausages served with onions and flatbread.

Soparnik: A savory pie filled with Swiss chard, garlic, and olive oil, originating from the Split area.

Black Risotto (Crni Rižot): A rich seafood dish made with cuttlefish and its ink.

Paski Sir: A sharp, hard cheese made from sheep’s milk, originating from Pag Island.

Fritule: Small doughnuts flavored with citrus and raisins, often enjoyed during festive seasons.

Kremšnita: A creamy custard slice topped with puff pastry, famous in Samobor.

Rafioli: A pastry filled with sweet cheese or jam, a staple dessert in Dalmatia.

Paprenjak: Spicy gingerbread cookies, often enjoyed during Christmas.

Arancini: Candied orange peel, typically served as a treat after meals.

Alcoholic:

  • Plavac Mali: Croatia’s most famous red wine, known for its deep flavors and boldness.
  • Malvasia: A white wine from the Istrian region, light and refreshing.
  • Rakija: A potent fruit brandy, often made from plums or grapes.
  • Slivovitz: A type of rakija made from plums, a popular drink in the inland regions.
  • Ožujsko: A popular Croatian beer, widely available and well-loved.
  • Karlovačko: Another well-known Croatian lager, refreshing and light.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Cedevita: A powdered drink mix, often consumed as a refreshing citrus-flavored beverage.
  • Kava: Croatian coffee, typically strong and served black or with milk.
  • Agava: A non-alcoholic herbal drink from Dalmatia, made with aromatic herbs.
  • Voda: Mineral water from Croatia’s natural springs, often consumed at meals.
  • Sok od Narance: Freshly squeezed orange juice, a favorite on warm summer days.

Dubrovnik’s Old Town (UNESCO, Game of Thrones sites).

Diocletian’s Palace (Roman ruins integrated into Split’s city center).

Pula’s Roman Arena (better-preserved than the Colosseum).

Trogir (medieval island town, UNESCO-listed).

St. James Cathedral (Šibenik) (UNESCO, stone masterpiece).

Zadar’s Sea Organ (musical waves + sunset views).

Trakošćan Castle (fairytale lakeside fortress).

Hvar’s Lavender Fields (peak bloom in June).

Varaždin’s Baroque Architecture (Croatia’s former capital).

Korčula’s Moreska Sword Dance (traditional performance).

Island-Hopping (Split to Hvar/Brač/Vis by ferry).

Plitvice Lakes (UNESCO park with waterfalls—arrive early).

Dubrovnik Walls Walk (best at sunrise/sunset).

Diocletian’s Palace (Split) (live music in the Peristyle).

Zlatni Rat Beach (Bol’s iconic changing sandbar).

Rovinj’s Art Scene (galleries and coastal charm).

Zagreb’s Museum of Broken Relationships (quirky must-see).

Kayaking the Elaphiti Islands (near Dubrovnik).

Truffle Hunting in Istria (with wine pairing).

Summer Festivals (e.g., Ultra Europe, Dubrovnik Summer Festival).

Culture Club Revelin: A renowned nightclub in Dubrovnik that hosts international DJs and vibrant dance floors.

The Ghetto Club: A trendy club in Zagreb with a mix of live music and club hits.

Caffe de Paris: A popular spot in Split for a cocktail with a view of the Adriatic.

Hula Hula Bar: A beachfront bar in Hvar, perfect for sunset cocktails and chilled vibes.

Hemingway Bar: A classy bar in Split, offering an extensive cocktail menu in a luxurious setting.

Havana Club: A vibrant nightclub in Pula, known for its late-night parties and live DJ performances.

Poco Loco: A fun, energetic bar in Zadar, perfect for a night out with friends.

Vinodol: A trendy bar in Zagreb serving creative cocktails and a variety of local spirits.

Poco Loco Beach Bar: A chill spot in Hvar for sipping cocktails by the sea.

Aquarius Club: One of the most famous nightclubs in Croatia, located on the island of Pag, attracting visitors from all over Europe.